Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shakshuka with Feta offers a delightful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish by incorporating creamy, tangy feta cheese into the spiced tomato sauce. The combination of poached eggs, aromatic vegetables, and rich spices creates a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. The addition of feta enhances the dish with its salty and creamy texture, making each bite a satisfying experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste
• 14 ounces crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet.
3. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, and harissa paste.
5. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
7. Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop flavor.
8. Make 6 small wells in the sauce using a spoon.
9. Carefully crack an egg into each well.
10. Cover the skillet and cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 5–7 minutes.
11. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the eggs and sauce.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of harissa paste or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the eggs and replace them with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based version.
• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, zucchini, or eggplant into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Herb Alternatives: Swap fresh parsley with cilantro or mint for a different herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the eggs may change upon thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Peel and chop them before adding to the skillet. You may need to cook them longer to achieve the desired sauce consistency.

2. How do I make the eggs less runny?

To cook the eggs longer, reduce the heat and cover the skillet. Allow the eggs to cook until the yolks reach your preferred level of doneness.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, create wells, and add the eggs to cook.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure that all ingredients, such as harissa paste, are gluten-free.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more harissa paste, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or chopped fresh chili peppers to increase the heat.

7. Can I use a non-stick skillet?

Yes, a non-stick skillet can be used. However, a cast-iron skillet retains heat better and can be transferred directly to the oven if desired.

8. What bread pairs well with shakshuka?

Serve shakshuka with crusty bread, pita, or challah to soak up the flavorful sauce.

9. Can I make this dish vegan?

Omit the eggs and feta, and replace them with tofu or chickpeas for a vegan version.

10. How do I adjust the spice level?

Adjust the amount of harissa paste and chili powder to suit your taste. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until the desired spice level is achieved.

Conclusion

The BEST Shakshuka with Feta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines poached eggs in a spiced tomato sauce with the creamy tang of feta cheese. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting qualities.

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